The Chinese-American Auto Challenge

China, the world’s most populated country, also happens to have the world’s largest car market. You may be surprised, however, to learn that Chinese buyers aren’t buying Chinese cars- they’re drawn to the American-made for their luxury appeal. And with the rising interest in American cars, companies such as Ford are opening larger markets in China while Chinese car manufacturers, such as Shanghai-based SAIC, are suffering.

In 2012, 19.27 million automobiles were made in China, which was far more than in the U.S. However, despite China’s growing auto industry, its reputation in the West isn’t very positive. In fact, in the early 2000’s, Chinese automobiles were known to have low safety standards and perform poorly in crash tests. Though their redesigns cut costs and made up for many setbacks, Chinese car makers had already made a bad impression. As a result, American vehicles, with a far better track record for performance and safety, are trickling into the blooming Chinese auto-market with high hopes. In fact, Ford is attempting to double their share in the Chinese market by introducing new cars intended to catch the eyes of Chinese buyers. After all, the Chinese economy has flourished and now, more than ever, people are earning enough to splurge on vehicles.

But it’s not just manufacturers that are reaping the rewards. Kelley Blue Book (KBB), known as one of the most prominent automotive pricing and data providers in the United States, has drawn the attention of the Chinese auto market in hopes of increasing domestic car sales. KBB offers valuable information for buyers and allows them to compare vehicles, search for dealerships, and estimate prices. And, in order to introduce and implement these services, they’re filing a joint venture with Bitauto Holdings Limited, a Chinese marketing firm. KBB’s entry into the increasing Chinese market has now officially ended the search for someone to organize the high demand.

In addition, China hopes to continue its joint-ventures with U.S. companies in order to learn from global competition and increase domestic sales. Hopefully, this increased circulation of information and expertise will help buyers make educated decisions and stimulate the Chinese and American economies.

To learn more about the automotive market in China, you should check out ‘China Car Times’, which features photos of the newest models, updates on progress and presence in the market, as well as user commentary.

As Editor of the WCIB blog and a journalism major in Baruch’s Honors program, Yelena strives to be the student version of a modern day Super Woman – using her special powers as a writer to help her peers understand the world around them. While attending Baruch, Yelena hopes to do this by bringing important global issues to the attention of Baruch students. When she’s not wearing her “journalism cape”, you can find her kicking back with a book and a cup of coffee at her local cafe or letting loose at a karaoke bar. Her only kryptonite is her sweet tooth, which she satisfies with copious amounts of Nutella.